Gordon McQueen - who was once Britain's most expensive footballer - dies

Former Manchester United and Scotland defender Gordon McQueen has died aged 70.

McQueen, who won the FA Cup with Manchester United in 1983 and earned 30 caps for Scotland, was diagnosed with vascular dementia in 2021.

His daughter, Hayley, a Sky Sports News presenter, posted a picture of her family along with a caption describing how they are "beyond heartbroken" to announce the death of their "wonderful dad" on Thursday.

She wrote: "I thought when the day came I'd be prepared and feel a sense of relief that he is no longer trying to battle this awful disease but I just feel numb.

"I'm hoping we can now remember him for the man that he was and not the man that he became this last few years."

Hayley McQueen hailed her father for "battling on for many months" and "putting up a fight" after his diagnosis.

She added: "I now want to remember my Dad for the man he was, the ultimate entertainer, the life and soul of every occasion, the greatest storyteller who certainly lived life to the full."

McQueen began his career playing at St Mirren before transferring to Leeds United in 1972, aged 22, where he won a league title.

He signed for Manchester United in 1978, winning the FA Cup in 1983 before hanging up his boots in 1985.

The footballer then went on to manage Airdrie and coached for St Mirren and Middlesborough, before working as a television analyst.

Manchester United posted an obituary to McQueen on the team website, writing: "Everybody at Manchester United is deeply saddened to learn that former Reds defender Gordon McQueen has passed away at the age of 70.

"It was impossible to miss Gordon, either on a football field or in a dressing room.

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"A giant of a man with a shock of vigorous blonde hair, the Scottish international centre-half stood out in the heat of the action like a blazing beacon on a dark night.

"When he was at his best and free of injury, he oozed command and charisma at the heart of the Manchester United rearguard while, as an inspirational morale-booster, he brought wicked humour and an unquenchable bonhomie, which endeared him to team-mates like few others."

Hundreds paid their respects to McQueen on social media after his death was announced.

FIFA, The Scottish FA, Leeds United, Manchester United, St Mirren and Middlesborough all shared Twitter tributes, joined by many other football clubs.

Former Reds star Mickey Thomas wrote: "Very sad news today of the loss of my former teammate, Gordon McQueen.

"Amazing defender, a big man with a big heart."

Presenter Jeff Stelling described the late footballer as a "lovely gentle giant of a man with an enormous heart", adding: "Gone far too soon."

Former striker Bernie Slavern tweeted after learning of McQueen's death: "Big Gordon was some character."

Among the tributes from fans, one wrote to McQueen's daughter: "Hayley, your Dad was one of the reasons I became a Red. Magnificent man in a wonderful side. My deepest sympathies to you & your whole family. He will never be forgotten. Incredibly brave, tenacious & determined in his football career and even more so in illness. A Warrior."

The 6ft 4in Scot, born in Ayrshire, kicked off his professional career after a brief stint as a labourer in a steelworks.

He caused fury and dismay among Elland Road fans after joining Manchester United in 1978 for £495,000 - making him Britain's most expensive football player at the time.

Former Reds captain, Bryan Robson, hailed McQueen as a "brilliant person with a huge heart" and "one of the best centre-backs I had the privilege of playing with".

"He was strong and brave, and ahead of his times in being a defender who could play out from the back and contribute as much in attack as he did in defence.

"He was a perfect fit for Manchester United with his flair, courage and big personality, and that's why the fans loved him."

Robson added: "He lit up any room he walked into, and that's how he should be remembered."